Reunited and Ready for Battle: Denzel Washington Joins Ridley Scott for ‘Gladiator 2’ After 17 Years

• Denzel Washington reunites with Ridley Scott for "Gladiator 2" after 17 years
• Washington praises Scott as a "no-nonsense master filmmaker"
• The film is centered around Lucius Verus, played by Paul Mescal
• Washington accepted the role of Macrinus after reading the script
• Washington only wants to work with directors he trusts at this point in his career
• "Gladiator II" is considered one of the best movies Scott has ever made
• Washington calls it the biggest film he’s been in yet
• The film will premiere in Philippine cinemas on December 4

Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington is set to reunite with acclaimed director Ridley Scott for the highly anticipated “Gladiator II” after 17 years. The film, a sequel to Scott’s 2000 masterpiece starring Russell Crowe, will now focus on the character Lucius Verus, portrayed by Paul Mescal.

Washington, who previously worked with Scott in the 2007 film “American Gangster,” expressed his admiration for the director, describing him as a “no-nonsense master filmmaker.” The actor’s decision to join the cast was heavily influenced by his respect for Scott’s work and his love for the original “Gladiator” film.

“When the call came in and it’s Ridley, about ‘Gladiator II,’ that’s how I felt: it’s Ridley Scott, about ‘Gladiator’,” Washington shared. “I was like, ‘Send me the script.’ I read it. I liked it. I probably had a couple (of) notes, but I liked it. So then it was, ‘When do you need me? When do we start?'”

Washington commended Scott’s dedication to the craft, emphasizing that filmmaking is truly the director’s medium. He expressed his confidence in Scott’s vision for the film and his own commitment to contributing his best to the project.

The actor also reflected on his career choices, stating that he is now selective about the directors he works with. Alongside Scott, Washington mentioned Spike Lee, Steve McQueen, and Ryan Coogler as filmmakers he trusts and admires.

Scott, for his part, has described “Gladiator II” as one of the best movies he has ever made, expressing his satisfaction with the project. Washington, in response, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of such a significant film.

“I’m not sentimental about the work, the movies I’ve done. But when it comes to Ridley, you can’t outwork the guy. You’ve just got to keep up with him. At his age, he’s still excited about the work. And for me, at this age, I’m excited seeing that. It’s inspiring for me to watch him work,” Washington shared.

“Gladiator II” is poised to be one of the biggest films in Washington’s career, and he highlighted Scott’s mastery in the filmmaking industry. The actor praised Scott for his passion and dedication to his craft, underscoring the director’s status as a true master in the game.

The highly anticipated sequel is set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on December 4, much to the excitement of fans and movie enthusiasts. With Washington and Scott at the helm, “Gladiator II” promises to be a cinematic experience like no other.

In the realm of Hollywood news, this reunion between Denzel Washington and Ridley Scott for “Gladiator II” marks a significant moment in cinema history. The collaboration between these two powerhouse talents is sure to result in a film that will captivate audiences worldwide.

/Digital Sauce